2007summernewsletter.. - The Leelanau Conservancy

Leelanau
Conservancy
Conserving the Land, Water and
Scenic Character of Leelanau County
Newsletter: Summer 2007
Vol.18, No. 2
162 acres Adjacent to Kehl Lake to be Protected
Natural Area to Expand by 40 Acres!
W
hat better time than midsummer to celebrate even more
precious wildlife habitat that will be protected at the Tip
of the Peninsula!
With the signing of a purchase agreement in early July,
the Conservancy will acquire 162 acres adjacent to our Kehl
Lake Natural Area (KLNA). We’ll keep 40 acres of the 162 to
add to our natural area, and then restrict and resell the other
122 acres to a conservation buyer.
KLNA has long been a destination of birders and wildflower enthusiasts because of its remote location, natural
shoreline, and old-growth forest. It was one of our first natural
areas, established in 1990. Since then, KLNA has been expanded
on three different occasions, and with this most recent 40acre addition, the natural area has more than doubled from its
original 113 acres.
The newest 40 acres is very close to our southern trail
loop, and it affords the opportunity to expand this trail into
mature upland hardwood forest, adding to the diversity of terrain within KLNA. Just as important, the other 122 acres we
will sell to a conservation buyer will also protect this area long
identified by the Conservancy as a critical stopover habitat for
migrating birds.
“The Cathead Bay/Lighthouse Point area has long been a
focus for protection by the Leelanau Conservancy for a couple
of simple reasons,” says Conservancy President Tom Dunfee.
“We had the luxury of building from a core of protected lands,
primarily in Leelanau State Park, and we had a group of property owners who really appreciate the wild beauty of the area.
Add to that the fact that conservation science points us in
this direction – Cathead Bay is one of just a handful of Great
Lakes Portfolio Sites identified by The Nature Conservancy in
Michigan – and it’s easy to see why we’ve put so much effort
into this area.”
The treeline in the distance is part of the 40 acres that will increase our Kehl
Lake Natural Area to 220 acres.
And those efforts have certainly paid off. Beginning with the
purchase of Kehl Lake’s original 113 acres in 1990, 16 projects
totaling 625 acres have added to that core of protected land
around the state park. In so doing, the vision of wildlife corridors connecting Northport Bay to Cathead Bay, and Cathead
Point to Lighthouse Point, is taking shape (see map on pg 2).
Here are the key additions just in the last six months.
• December 2006 – We received notification that 51 acres
and 1,400 feet of shoreline at the very northeastern reaches
of the peninsula will forever be protected through a $2 million
Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant.
• June 2007 – We closed on our Lighthouse West Project, a
$1.6 million, 42-acre property with 640 feet of shoreline on the
(continued on page 2)
New Trail
At Chip Run
p3
DeYoung
Happenings
p4
Tax Benefit
Deadline
p8
Farmland
News
p9
Volunteer
Stories
p 10
Preserver
Tile Photos
p 11
Hikes
and Events
p 14
President’s Message
I
love the summer time! The gathering
of family and friends has always been
one of my favorite times up north. Sand
in every room of the house, grandchildren squealing on the beach or playing
king or queen of the raft, and those
early-evening cookouts with the smell
of burgers, brats, and hot dogs that
stir memories of summer times of long
ago. This early summer has been particularly rewarding at the
Conservancy as well. We closed on the purchase of Lighthouse
West at the tip of the peninsula just recently, adding 640 feet
of Lake Michigan shoreline. At the other end of the county, we
opened our new hiking trail through the Chippewa Run Natural
Area coinciding with our first Sustainers group outing of this
year. In addition we have a number of new conservation easements throughout the county to report as well as some outright
purchases of important lands that are in the final phases of
negotiations with our busy land protection staff.
On the issue of land protection you may recall that last
August Congress passed legislation greatly expanding the tax
incentives for donations of conservation easements. By raising
the deduction from 30% to 50% of income and extending the
deduction from five to fifteen years, these incentives make it
possible for moderate-income families to protect their land
while realizing significant tax savings. In addition, the legislation helps protect farmland by allowing farmers to deduct up
to 100% of their income.
We have already seen firsthand the impact of this legislation. We are working on more than twice the number of projects
we would have expected without the legislation, including two
especially exciting projects involving historic farms off M-204.
Quite simply, we would not be able to preserve this land without
these incentives.
However, these incentives only apply to landowners
who protect their land by the end of 2007. Our congressman,
Dave Camp, has introduced legislation to make the incentives permanent, but the way the legislative process works, it
remains uncertain whether this legislation will pass before the
tax incentives expire in December. We will continue to push to
see this vital legislation enacted, but landowners considering
donating an easement should take advantage of the tax savings
while they are still available.
Enjoy the rest of the summer !
Tom Dunfee
The property is a haven for
migratory birds.
Addition to Kehl Lake NA (cont’d)
northwestern coastline of the peninsula which is now forever
preserved as a key component of this crucial wildlife area.
• July of 2007 – 162 acres of undeveloped lands adjacent to
our Kehl Lake Natural Area protected, with 40 acres of upland
hardwood forest to be added to KLNA.
With these recent additions, that long-term focus on one
of the most wild and unique landscapes Leelanau County has
to offer is really paying off. Now that’s worth celebrating!
Migratory Bird Survey at the Tip
We always knew the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula was a special
place for birds, but with help from a grant from the Michigan
Coastal Management Program and expertise from Saving Birds
Thru Habitat staff and volunteers, we were able to count the
ways. Visit our website for a list of the 72 species found during the Lighthouse West Bird Survey conducted in May. “In
general, the property is a haven for migratory birds, particularly
during inclement weather in the spring,” says Saving Birds Thru
Habitat Director, Kay Charter. “The habitat is varied enough
that it offers quality stopover sites for virtually all species
traveling north through Leelanau County.”
Special thanks to Marlin Bussey, Pauline McClure, Ann
McInnis and Jeff and Becky Kingery for helping with the survey.
“We know there are many more birds who stop over and nest in
this area and we plan to keep counting and protecting important
bird areas,” says Stewardship Director Jenée Rowe.
Project Updates
Chippewa Run’s Terrific New Trail: Get Out There!
This summer our stewardship staff and volunteers created a
gorgeous new 1 ¼ mile trail system. It leads visitors through
and around some of the most interesting and beautiful natural
features of this 110-acre property that serves as the “Gateway
to Empire.” Check out our calendar on page 14 for opportunities to visit with a docent, or hike it on your own. This place
is known for its array of songbirds and raptors, and provides
a way for you to see many habitats in one place. We hope
you’ll visit the new trail soon!
The new easy 1¼ mile trail winds along a stream shaded by
large maple trees, then crosses into an old apple orchard.
Hikers can take a crossover trail back to the stream or venture ahead and climb a short hill into a forest of fir trees
for a view of the winding stream and beaver ponds.
In late June some 50 Conservancy Sustainers hiked the
trail with staff and docents at one of our two summer
Sustainer gatherings.
Steve Young and Sarah Cook pick up and
recycle a small dump of old glass bottles. We
couldn’t have created this trail without our
dedicated group of volunteers who collectively
donated 64 hours in May and June to help staff
build the trail and clean up the Natural Area.
Many, many thanks!
News and Notes From
Leelanau Conservancy’s
Newest Natural Area
Pathfinder Students:
Visualizing a Restored Wetland
Traverse City Youth Corps:
Growing at DeYoung by Tracy Watson
T
he significance of teaching future generations about the
effects of invasive species is immense. Recently, Pathfinder students visited the DeYoung Natural Area in order to
learn about the cedar forest there and how it is impacted by
the invading shrub, glossy buckthorn. Stewardship Director
Jenée Rowe spent a few field sessions teaching 5th through 8th
graders about what plants and animals would live in the area
if the invasive species were removed. In a special partnering
of preschoolers with the middle school, the older students in
turn taught the younger students, demonstrating that the best
way to learn about a topic is to teach it yourself.
The students worked together on projects at DeYoung
that incorporated both science and art. They collected natural
materials and built “trail markers” that symbolized their vision
for what will come back in the place of the glossy buckthorn.
“The goal was to show the positive long-term vision we have
for this landscape and inspire them to tackle future landscapes
in need of preservation and restoration,” says Jenee.
Teacher Sarah Johnson echoed Jenee’s enthusiasm. “It’s so
great to get students outside this time of year, especially with a
project that incorporates art and science at the same time. This
was all kid-generated; their job was to use material from nature
that they collected to create something together.”
Seventh grader Jesse Einhorn-Johnson says that she liked
continued on page 5
T
he Leelanau Conservancy proudly welcomes four Traverse
City Youth Corps crews to our DeYoung Natural Area this
summer. These high school students have already been a huge
help. They planted hundreds of tree seedlings that will attract
wildlife and have helped extensively with maintenance work
on the property.
Most recently, the Youth Corps worked with farmer Bob
Siera, a great neighbor of our DeYoung Natural Area, who
also owns Leelanau Produce. Bob Siera, who retired from the
Traverse City Public School system in the early 90’s, helped
the students cultivate a garden plot. Further plans call for teen
mothers of Traverse City’s alternative high school to tend and
harvest the garden and bring fresh vegetables home to their
families. Bob helped students to turn the soil, taught them
efficient planting methods and even helped them to rig up a
gravity-fed irrigation system to keep the plants watered.
“Nobody ever taught these kids how to farm,” says Donna
Novak, a Traverse City teacher and Youth Corps crew leader.
“I think it’s important that we get them out here so that they
can learn these processes. This is the first time that the Youth
Corps has had its ‘own’ garden.”
Our partnership with the Traverse City Youth Corps demonstrates how great a resource the DeYoung Natural Area is to
the surrounding community. It provides opportunity for these
students to gain valuable work experience and has enabled the
Leelanau Conservancy to cultivate an awesome partnership with
the region’s youth!
Rotary Challenge Complete!
Students at DeYoung
n our last newsletter, we reported on the $50,000 Rotary
Charities Matching Challenge for DeYoung and asked
for readers’ help to close in on the final funds. We did
it! As of this writing, we have secured $683,639 in gifts
and pledges toward our $1 million fundraising goal. Thank
you, Rotary, and thanks to the many donors who stepped
forward with support.
The first phase of DeYoung is a $2.1 million project.
To reach that mark, we have partnered with Elmwood Township to apply for the additional $1 million from the Michigan
Natural Resources Trust Fund. The review process is now
underway, and while we will not know the State’s response
until December, we owe great thanks to the Elmwood
Township Board and Parks & Recreation Committee for
their support.
This year, we’ve really worked hard to create ways for
the community to begin “discovering DeYoung.” Watching
people begin to build their own relationships to the property
has been one of the most rewarding aspects of our work.
Visitors walk the new trail, wander the tall grass, paint the
landscape, attend outdoor classes, learn about local history,
build raptor nest boxes, and dig their hands in the earth.
Soon kids will park their bikes and put their poles in the
water at the DeYoung fishing pier. The ways to quietly explore or actively engage with the property will expand even
more over time - and people cannot wait!
Our relationship to the land matters. Every gift also
matters. Over 425 people have supported DeYoung since
December of 2005… we have come a long, long way! With
just over $300,000 yet to raise, however, your help remains
important. Please join your voice to that of your neighbors
and consider making a gift to an amazing community resource: the DeYoung Natural Area on Cedar Lake.
touring the property, collecting
things to make trail markers. “We
got to talk to our little buddies
about the importance of the activity
and help them to understand.”
The importance of the DeYoung Natural Area to our county
and the area’s students is invaluable. What an amazing tool to inspire these students to look towards
the future! “I was really proud of
the progress and their level of understanding of these complex ecosystem issues,” says Jenee. “I loved
seeing 150 kids enjoying the new DeYoung Natural Area.” Glossy buckthorn was brought from Eurasia and North
Africa and introduced to the Americas for ornamental purposes,
and more specifically in Leelanau County, for erosion control.
The shrub thrives in richly bio-diverse wet areas, crowding and
shading out natives such as the cedar, yellow birch, red osier
dogwood, and under story plants like sensitive ferns. Our native
plant species serve purposes that the invasive glossy buckthorn
cannot. Migratory birds depend on wetlands, particularly the
species in the cedar forest, for food sources such as insects,
larvae and berries. The buckthorn is a poor food source and
does not host these creatures.
I
(cont’d from pg 3)
Hey all you bloggers!
Come see what I
found at DeYoung!
How You Can Help! We Need…
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Donations large and small to help us reach our goal of
$1 million in private funding to make this property ours
forever! As of this date, we are $300,000 away from
meeting that goal. Volunteers to remove invasive species (cut, drag, be
outdoors!)
Volunteers to distribute flyers and newsletters, and to
help with events
Material and labor to repair the machine shop roof
Shade trees for the Leelanau Trail drinking fountain area
$100/$500 gift card for volunteer work and work bee
tools
Trail utility vehicle
Trailer (even to lend when needed)
Visit my blog at www.theconservancy.com/blog
“My motto? When exploring, always bring a snack.”
— the DeYoung Squirrel
DeYoung Update
“There’s no reason the structures
at DeYoung can’t live on for
another 100 years.”
History Lesson
W
e’re lucky to have Traverse City architect Ken Richmond,
who has worked extensively in historical documentation
and preservation, volunteering his time on our DeYoung project. He literally has been guiding our hand when it comes to
the buildings on this historic farmstead. We don’t make a move
without his advice - from rebuilding the rotting porch on the old
farmhouse to replacing the doors on the lower hay barn.
In June, Ken toured our Conservancy docents around the
property to share his knowledge of the history of the DeYoung
Farm and to point out architectural features so that the docents
can in turn convey the information to visitors like you. Old applepicking ladders, a split silo that once held two types of grain,
and remnants of white paint in the dairy barn were among the
things he cited. Ken says it was common to paint milking areas
white to create an aura of cleanliness.
Speaking on behalf of the Conservancy,” he told the group,
“we would love to see these old buildings used again, not closed
up like time capsules. There’s no reason they can’t live on for
another 100 years, with an appropriate re-use, if they are
properly restored. But,” he added, “updating and refurbishing the structures will take a lot of money.”
“That’s very true,” says Anne Shoup, Director
of Charitable Giving. “Once we’ve cleared the financial
hurdles associated with simply owning the property, we
hope to bring these old buildings back to life one day.”
Thanks to a grant from the Oleson Foundation, a hand pump water fountain along
the TART trail was put in this spring for passing hikers and bikers. We
also installed bike racks and a gravel parking lot near the lower hay barn.
Let’s go Fishing!
In August we’ll build a new fishing pier off
our Cedar Lake Trail. The new pier will be
a great place for people of all ages to come
and put in a line. The pier will also include
specially designed areas where people with
disabilities can also cast a line! Pictured here:
Emily Beyer catching pan fish from the lake
in years past.
DeYoung… in a Nutshell
Ken Richmond, (blue jacket), with Conservancy Docents and Brian
Price, Executive Director, points out Greek revival details on the
DeYoung chicken coop. “This building has an attitude,” he joked.
”Somebody really cared about this little building!”
The 145-acre DeYoung Natural Area is located on Cherry
Bend Road, just 1.5 miles north of the Traverse City city
limits. Hop in your car or “bike to hike” from Traverse City
by following the TART Leelanau Trail, which runs through
the property. DeYoung showcases the Up North habitats
and landscapes we all love so well, including a beautiful mix
of farmland and forested hillsides overlooking Cedar Lake
and the Old Mission Peninsula, a pond and clear stream,
sensitive wetlands, an historic farmstead, and nearly a mile
of natural Cedar Lake shoreline. There is something here
for everyone - DeYoung hosts trail hiking, learning events
for all ages, work bees (get your hands dirty!), and school
projects. Our dreams for this property are so exciting, but
DeYoung is your resource… come visit!
“We get to help maintain Conservancy
lands and help volunteers involve
themselves in our community.”
T
Happenings
Meet Our Interns!
his terrific trio is proving to be an immense help to our staff while they gain valuable work experience. Tracy and Peter are
veteran interns from summer 2006, who hit the floor running when they arrived in May. Sarah has quickly stepped in, helping
to lead volunteers at work bees and working on our Leelanau Preserver tile project at the Leland Village Green. We love their
strong backs, youthful energy, challenging questions and willing attitude.
Peter Povolo
I’m back for my second summer as a stewardship intern
under the wing of my fearless leader, Stewardship Director Jenée Rowe. I have grown up in Leelanau County, and
graduated from Leland Public School in 2004. I will be a
senior at Northern Michigan University, pursuing a B.S.in
Outdoor Recreation Leadership and Management. I would
like to become a ranger for the National Park Service.
While at NMU, I serve as the Treasurer for (OORP)
Organization for Outdoor Recreation Professionals, the
06-07 student organization of the year. I am an avid
outdoorsman and through my pursuits have learned the
importance of preserving Leelanau County.
This summer I will be working on projects at the
DeYoung and Chippewa Run Natural Areas. I will head up work bees
and guide volunteers with trail work and other goals. Another fun
project has been working with the Traverse City Youth Corps. The
Conservancy has partnered with the Youth Corps from the alternative high school in Traverse City to provide opportunities for service
projects at some of our natural areas. It has been very rewarding to
work with this hard-working, fun-loving group of kids.
Sarah Cook
I am the Conservancy’s newest stewardship intern and am a 2005
graduate of Glen Lake High School. This fall I will be a junior at the
University of Michigan where I am pursuing a B.S. in “Program in the
Environment.” On campus I am involved with many environmental
and volunteer groups, such as SEEDS which promotes ecological
awareness, and when at home I enjoy producing radio segments for
Radio Anyway on WNMC.
My family moved to Leelanau County from the Ann Arbor
area in the late 90’s because we wanted to escape the urban sprawl
that is so prominent in many Michigan communities. Leelanau was
an obvious choice for us because of family in the area and because
the county represents a unique and beautiful example of preserving
valuable natural space. Now my family lives near Cedar on property
we have put into a conservation easement to create a block of protected land with our neighbors. I love being outdoors, exploring
the county and swimming. I am really enjoying being a stewardship
intern because we get to help maintain Conservancy lands and help
volunteers involve themselves in our community.
Our fantastic summer interns (l to r): Tracy Watson, Peter Povolo,
Sarah Cook
Tracy Watson
You may recognize me from last summer. I am back once
again working in Communications. My family has strong
roots in the area, dating back to some of the earliest settlers in the 1850s of the Port Oneida region. I am proud to
be a Leelanau native, having grown up in the Glen Arbor
area and am a 2005 Glen Lake H.S. graduate. I will be a
senior at Grand Valley State University and am seeking a
B.S. in Communications, with a minor in Public and Nonprofit Administration, as well as an American Humanics
certificate in Nonprofit Leadership and Management. I also
serve as president of the Student Environmental Coalition
while at school. Following college, I want to enroll in a
national service organization such as Americorps, and
pursue graduate work through CMU.
I am excited to be back this summer, helping with
special events such as our Annual Picnic and Auction,
working on graphic design, coordinating booth events,
contacting volunteers, and learning more about public
relations, development, and marketing.
I love this area, and am blessed to call it home. I
am truly fortunate to have grown up here. I realize the
importance of preserving our beautiful county’s natural
and historical assets for generations to come, and enjoy
devoting my energies and learning experiences towards
the mission of the Conservancy.
It is very important to note that the new federal
income tax incentives apply to conservation
gifts made in 2006 and 2007. If Congress fails
to extend the incentives this year, then they will
end on December 31, 2007.
Project Updates
Timing is Everything…
And Now is the Time to Consider That Conservation Easement
I
once had a teacher whose mantra was ‘Timing is everything’.
To that end, 2007 offers an unprecedented opportunity for
landowners who care deeply about their land to realize newly
increased federal income tax incentives AND prevent the “popup” of property taxes with the donation of a qualifying conservation easement (CE) over their land. In August 2006, President
Bush signed into law new federal income tax incentives for
conservation easement donations. The new incentives were
designed to encourage people of modest income who wish to
protect valuable conservation land.
Under the “old” law, an individual could deduct the value
of a CE donation of up to 30% of the donor’s adjusted gross
income (AGI) for the year, with a five-year carry forward of any
unused amount. These restrictions prevented some CE donors
from utilizing the full value of their donation, particularly when
land was held in a corporation, or when the CE had a high
appraised value, but the donor had a relatively low income.
The new law allows the donors of a CE to deduct up to 50% of
their AGI for the year of the gift and carry forward any unused
portion of that donation for up to 15 years after the year of the
donation (10 more years than was previously allowed). The
new law also treats corporations the same as individuals. And
finally, “qualifying farmers or ranchers” (individual or corporation) can deduct up to 100% of their AGI for a qualifying CE.
It is very important to note that the new federal income tax
incentives apply to conservation gifts made in 2006 and 2007.
If Congress fails to extend the incentives this year then they will
end on December 31, 2007.
In addition to the time-sensitive federal income tax incentives, there is another change in state law that occurred in
December 2006 that provides additional significant financial
incentives for donating a CE. With the passage of PA 446 a property owner can prevent property taxes from skyrocketing when
land is passed down or sold by donating a CE over qualifying
land before it transfers. To understand what this might mean in
your situation, simply consult your tax bills to check the difference between taxable value and your state equalized value. Your
actual property taxes are based on multiplying the lower taxable
value by the prevailing millage rate in your township. When
you transfer the land to a new owner, whether by sale or by a
bequest or gift to your children, the property tax law states that
the taxes must “pop-up” to the state equalized value. PA 446
provides a great solution for conservation minded landowners
wanting to sell or transfer their land intact without creating an
unsustainable property tax burden for the new owners.
These remarkable new incentives give landowners the ability to protect the land they love while realizing significant new
financial incentives not previously available. To make sure that
landowners are able to take full advantage of this limited window
the Conservancy is trying to contact as many landowners as possible so they are aware of this amazing opportunity. Already this
year we’ve handled inquiries and have projects in the works at
twice the rate that we would have in a normal year, but we have
made provisions to accommodate this welcome workload. We
encourage landowners in Leelanau County who want to discuss
their options to contact us asap. Less than sixmonths remain
to utilize increased federal income tax incentives. And most
importantly, as always, it is advisable to get good individualized
tax advice to know for sure how these additional incentives might
apply to a particular situation.
--Matt Heiman, Land Protection Specialist
Impact of Federal Tax Changes on Conservation Easement Donations
Individuals
Adjusted Gross Income Limitation
Carry-forward of Unused Contribution
Corporations
Taxable Income Limitation
Carry-forward of Unused Contribution
*100% for qualified farms
Old Law
New Law
30%
5 years
50%*
15 years
10%
5 years
50%*
15 years
Note that if your family land is in a corporation, the previous tax
law made it very difficult to get full value of the deduction from
a conservation easement gift. That has changed. Under the
Pension Protection Act of 2006 corporations are treated equally
with individuals. Also, under the new law, qualified farms can
offset up to 100% of adjusted gross income for the gift of a conservation easement. Lands held in a corporation or as part of
a qualified family farm are special but important cases, and we
encourage you to contact the Conservancy directly as well as
to seek professional advice if you qualify under these rules.
Excerpt from the Conservation Easement Guidebook for Landowners Guidebook.
To read more, download the complete guidebook at www.theconservancy.com
Nearly one in four acres of tart
cherries nationwide is found right
here in Leelanau County.
I
Project Updates
Why Protect Leelanau County Farmland?
by Dan Scripps
n our spring newsletter, we focused on our challenge in
finding a new way forward in protecting the working farms
of Leelanau County. In this edition, we follow up on that by
looking at what’s at stake in the discussions regarding farmland protection. In the November newsletter, we’ll focus on
the Leelanau Conservancy’s strategy to protect this resource.
A Globally Unique Resource
Leelanau County boasts some of the best farmland in the world.
Nearly one in four acres of tart cherries nationwide is found
right here in Leelanau. Local farmers also grow nearly 50% of
all Michigan sweet cherries, and half of all cherries grown in
Northwest Michigan are grown in Leelanau County. Our county
also leads the region in growing apples, pears, peaches and
plums, and we’re second in the region in grape production.
Furthermore, the combination of roadside stands, farmers’ markets and Community Supported farms (CSAs) makes Leelanau a
natural nexus between those who love locally grown foods and
the farmers that grow them.
The productivity of our farms contributes heavily to the
local economy. Farming remains our county’s second largest
economic sector, and the crossover with agri-tourism destinations contributes to making Leelanau County so appealing for
residents and visitors alike. Simply put, Leelanau County would
not be the same without our working farms.
Intense Development Pressure
Unfortunately, we are very much at risk of losing the farms and
farmland that contribute so much to our nation’s agricultural
production and our local way of life. Between 1990 and 2000,
Leelanau County lost 10,000 acres of productive agricultural land
- 20% of the farmland in the county! Worse, these trends are
accelerating. According to a report recently cited in the Leelanau
Enterprise, Leelanau lost more cherry acreage between 2003 and
2006 than any other county in the state. Furthermore, Northwest
Michigan has been Michigan’s fastest growing region for over a
decade, and virtually all of the counties in the region are among
the fastest growing counties in the state. At this pace, by 2050
agriculture in Leelanau County will be relegated to the margins
of our community - making me wonder where my children and
grandchildren will get their cherry pie, where we will go for local
food, and how those who farm this land will make a living.
It is within this context of a globally unique agricultural
resource threatened by intense development pressures that the
Leelanau Conservancy is working to develop a blueprint to protect
our working farms, promote our local agriculture and preserve
our rural character. Check out our next newsletter for details
on how we plan to move forward.
Dan Scripps joined the Leelanau Conservancy in February
for a one-year position funded jointly by the W.K. Kellogg
Foundation and a Michigan-based family foundation. Dan’s
charge: to develop a new approach to protecting farmland in
Leelanau County by researching best practices from around
the country; considering ways to spur local philanthropy to
protect Leelanau’s working farms; analyzing policy options
and funding sources at the state and national level; and reaching out to farmers and others to build community support
for this new approach.
As part of his research, Dan recently returned from
a two-week fact-finding trip that included discussions with
ten land conservancies from Virginia to Vermont, as well as
meeting with the Washington DC staff of both Senator Stabenow and Congressman Camp to discuss federal farmland
protection issues.
“We’re at a crucial juncture when it comes to protecting Leelanau County farmland,” said Scripps. “While there
are no easy answers, we’re leaving no stone unturned in our
search for innovative ways to protect our globally unique
and acutely threatened working farms, ensure the continued economic viability of agriculture in Leelanau County
and guarantee that future generations have access to fresh,
healthy, locally grown food.”
“The experience will enrich your
summer, and allow you to give a little
something back to this organization
that does so much for all of us.”
Happenings!
Making the Connection
by Mary Haberland Hengelbrok
E
very summer my family and I drive up from Florida to spend
two weeks with my husband’s parents at their cottage on Lake
Leelanau. Over 20 summers in Leland, the Leelanau Peninsula has
remained one of the most beautiful areas I have ever visited, in
large part because so much of the land is being preserved for all
of us to enjoy. Years ago we learned about the wonderful mission
of the Conservancy, and in past summers, we explored many of the
natural areas saved through the organization’s efforts. This summer, instead of just writing a check to support the Conservancy’s
work, we decided to volunteer our time as well.
Volunteering is very easy. All I had to do was e-mail the
Conservancy and was quickly offered a variety of opportunities.
My sons Dave and Tim, ages 16 and 14, joined me one morning
in folding and stuffing envelopes for Conservancy mailings, and
in sorting and tagging t-shirts. At lunchtime my husband, Jim,
picked up the boys at the office, and the three of them headed
for Chippewa Run Natural Area, where they joined a group of
volunteers setting posts for newly developed trails.
The following week the four of us drove to the Conservancy
offices after hours, and
weeded one of the shrubbery beds outside. Living
in Florida, where weeds
provide the only green in
our yard, the boys were unfamiliar with this task, but
we followed staff instructions and pulled up everything that wasn’t a shrub.
We actually had a lot of
Mary and sons, enjoying the beauty of Leelafun,
joking and competing
nau after spending part of their
with
one
another as we filled
vacation volunteering.
two bags with weeds. Later
that week we took Nana and Pop with us to Chippewa Run. We
walked the trail together and admired the work the boys had done
with their father.
Altogether, the four of us contributed about 25 hours of
volunteer time, although individually, none of us worked more than
7 hours. In addition to learning more about the Conservancy’s
projects, the boys earned volunteer hours required by their high
schools. More importantly, we all now feel more connected to the
Leelanau Peninsula. I encourage other supporters to volunteer.
The experience will enrich your summer, and allow you to give
a little something back to this organization that does so much
for all of us.
10
“Doing My Small Part”
W
e now have 60 members in our Heritage Society - a
special group of people who have named the Leelanau Conservancy in their will or created an estate plan with
the Conservancy as a
beneficiary.
Meet the newest (and youngest)
member of our Heritage Society, Courtney Miller, 28, who
moved to Leelanau
County six years ago,
“right after college.”
“Originally, I was going to move to Chicago,” says Courtney,
“but, I decided that
what Leelanau had
to offer was more in
line with what I was Courtney Miller, youngest member of our
Heritage Society
looking for in my life.
Small community,
nature, not a lot of hustle & bustle. I really wanted the kind
of lifestyle that living in Leelanau could provide me. Growing up, I spent my summers here, just as my dad did when
he was growing up. I played summer softball, and when I
was old enough, went to work at Carlson’s. I worked there
every summer through college. After I graduated, I moved
here, and was lucky enough to stay, find a job as a financial
advisor with Merrill Lynch, and buy a house.”
Courtney says she joined the Heritage Society “because
I want to make sure that when I am gone I have done my
small part to ensure that the things I love about Leelanau
will still be around for future generations to enjoy.”
Heritage Society is just one of the many ways Courtney gives to our organization. She is heading up our Picnic
Local Foods Committee and, like last year, will be serving
appetizers under the big tent. She has also, for three years,
recruited colleagues at Merrill Lynch for Picnic underwriting,
raising $2,350 each year in individual, regional and corporate
matching funds from Merrill Lynch!
To learn more about the Heritage Society, please call
our Director of Charitable Giving, Anne Shoup (231-2569665) or email her at ashoup@theconservancy.com
Project Updates
Preserver Tile Progress!
We’ve begun mounting tiles
in our Leland Village Green
that recognize Leelanau Preservers who have reached
one-tenth-acre milestones
or greater. We love the way
this is turning out and know
you will too. (Here, a section
awaits final grouting, which will be finished by the time you read this.) Stop by and check it out when you are in Leland.
The tiles are the creation of Suttons Bay artisan and super Conservancy volunteer, Leif Sporck.
Wildflower Rescuers: Thank You!
They did it again, those wonderful wildflower rescuers! This
dedicated group spent hours and hours digging up wildflowers to save them from being turned under by a bulldozer and
to raise funds for the Leelanau Conservancy by selling them at
their annual Memorial Weekend Village Green Plant Sale. The
sale raises about $25,000 annually to maintain our beautiful
Leland Village Green gardens and to contribute to an endowment for future care of the Green, ensuring that locals and
visitors alike have a beautiful place to visit in Leland for years
to come. Their good works also extend beyond the event: sale
leftovers are planted at our natural areas. We love this group,
an effective force for both saving and proliferating the spread
of native wildflowers in Leelanau. And, because the Green is
right across the street from our offices, we see first hand just
how many people wander the gardens or sit quietly amidst the
The Wildflower Rescue Annual Memorial Weekend Plant Sale helps
beauty to rest, think, or eat a picnic lunch. Thank you, Wild- rescued plants find a home
flower Rescuers, for all your hard work!
11
Project Updates
“It’s a great example of what can happen when people have a vision and
are willing to work together,”
Suttons Bay’s 45th Parallel Park a Done Deal!
I
t’s official. Suttons Bay Township and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) have a new jointly-owned
park. MDOT owns the four-acre waterfront strip of land along
M-22 just north of Suttons Bay known as the “45th Parallel
Park.” The state’s portion includes 435 feet of West Grand
Traverse Bay. The township acquired 43 adjacent acres just
across M-22, where it plans to create walking trails, scenic
overlooks and interpretive signage.
Suttons Bay and MDOT officials closed on the property
in April. The lion’s share of the project funds came from a
$419,000 MDOT grant. Suttons Bay Township was able to
secure the funds in part because M-22 is part of the state
designated Leelanau Scenic Heritage Route. The grant funding left a $96,000 shortfall and so the township absorbed half
the burden and approached the Leelanau Conservancy for help
with raising the remaining funds. “We’re glad to help preserve
this beautiful piece of land for the public to enjoy,” says Brian
Price, Conservancy Director. “Suttons Bay Township is to be
commended for having a vision for this park and working so
hard to make it happen.”
The new park is a culmination of years of work and
coordination between local, state and federal public officials,
the Conservancy, the Leelanau Scenic Heritage Route Committee, Rotary Charities, Northwest Council of Governments and
ordinary citizens serving on township committees. “It’s a great
Director Brian Price, far right, and Board Member Barbara Nelson-Jameson, third from left, were part of the ribbon cutting crew in May, celebrating
Suttons Bay Township’s acquisition of the 45th Parallel Park.
example of what can happen when people have a vision and
are willing to work together,” said Tom Nixon, chairperson of
the Heritage Route Committee and a member of the township’s
parks and recreation committee. Dick Catton, a trustee on the township board, agrees.
“It was great to see how the private community and all levels
of government can work together for the public benefit. It was
a team effort and we all win.”
Raising the Bar
We’re proud to be one of the first land trusts in the country
to be accepted in a new national accreditation pilot program.
This pilot program is sponsored by the Land Trust Alliance,
a national umbrella organization which helps to strengthen
land trusts across the country. Twenty-two organizations
were asked to apply and the Conservancy was notified in
May that it had been accepted. In order to be accepted for
review, the Conservancy submitted a comprehensive package
of reports detailing its organizational and land conservation
practices. The accreditation program will recognize land conservation organizations that meet national quality standards
for protecting important natural places and working lands
forever. “Participating in the LTA’s accreditation process is
an excellent tool to help us continue to adhere to the highest
standards and ensure our success for many years to come,”
said Conservancy Director Brian Price.
12
Sustainers Roland and Diane Drayson with Conservancy President Tom
Dunfee (left). Roland, University of Michigan Professor Emiritus of Atmospheric Sciences, spoke in May to over 100 Conservancy supporters about
climate change and its potential impact on Leelanau County weather, water
levels and ecology.
Happenings
Welcome New Sustainers!
We now have over 450 individuals/families who make an annual pledge of $500 or more to support the operations
of the Conservancy, giving us the consistency we need to insure we meet our long-term goals for protecting this very
beautiful place. Sustainers are special people with special events held in their honor. To learn more about joining the
Sustainers Circle, call Gayle at 256-9665 or email her at gayle@theconservancy.com. Thanks to all our loyal Sustainers.
Your support is critical to our ongoing success.
New Sustainers:
Gary and Christine Armbrecht
Adrian and Pamela Baker
Duane and Jean Bingel
Patrick and Irene Bruen
Marie Coppa
Mrs. Karen Douma
Ronald & Ilse Dove
Mr. and Mrs. Berkley Duck, III
William and Joan Elder
Bob Elliott
John and Vicki Gudritz
Dr. John W. Hays
Alan and Teri Kasper
Daniel & Connor Kostrzewa &
Melissa Yeomans
Nancy Malecki
Michael and Theresa Morton
Meet Bob Elliott, new Sustainer
“I’m the third of five generations of my family to enjoy Leelanau
County. And I’m the second generation to have made this our year round
home. My 11 year old grandson is all excited about the fact that he will
inherit the family property on Good Harbor Bay one of these days! I have
always enjoyed the beauty and the wildness of the county. I became a
Sustainer that I might help the Conservancy keep parts of the county the
way they have been all these years.” says Bob.
Martha Norris & Todd Kennell
Bill Pumphrey & Julie Thomas
Betty V. Rhoades
Lucille and Connie Riopelle
Scot & Christiane Roemer
Dr. William C. Scharf
Gary Schultheiss & Barbara Richman
Gary and Margaret Valade
In addition to being a Sustainer,
Bob is part of
our hardworking
mailing crew.
Here he is, labeling Picnic fliers.
M-22 Makers to Donate % of Sales
The makers of the wildly popular
M-22 stickers, t-shirts and other
clothing and household items
have announced that they will
donate a percentage of yearly
sales to the Leelanau Conservancy. “Those fortunate enough
to experience the areas on or
around M-22 understand that it
is one of North America’s best
kept secrets, and are absolutely
proud to represent their ties to
the region,” says sales manager
and Conservancy member Will Harper. This hot line can be
found at many shops around the region, or online at:
http://www.m22online.com/. Thank you, everyone at M-22!
Sustainers pause on a hike of the new Cedar Lake trail for a photo
op. Left to right: Debby Igleheart, Jack and Pat Krause and Joan
Searby.
13
Hikes, Events
2007 Summer and Fall Hike Schedule
Important Note: We are pleased to offer this schedule of hikes and programs, led by our knowledgeable volunteer Docents. Do dress according
to weather. So that we may provide the best experience possible and be fully prepared, we require (and appreciate!) advanced registration. Most
hikes last around two hours unless otherwise noted. Please call 231-256-9665 to register and for questions about directions. Want to learn more
about the Docent who will be leading your hike? Visit our website and read about their backgrounds, interests and teaching styles.
July
Sunday, July 29 8 pm
Cedar River Full Moon Kayak
Experience sunset and moon rise at the Cedar
River Natural Area. Take an evening kayak trip
(canoes are fine too) down Victoria Creek
with Leelanau Conservancy docents Alice
Van Zoeren and Pam Schmidt and paddle
back under the light of a full moon. Meet
in Cedar at the parking area near the ball
diamonds. You will need to provide your
own kayak or canoe.
August
Thursday, August 2 5 pm
Conservancy Friends Annual Picnic and
Auction
The event of the season! See back of this
newsletter for details, or go to
www.theconservancy.com
Saturday, August 4 2 pm
A Walking Tour of the DeYoung
Natural Area
Join docent Dick Fidler for an informative
hike around the DeYoung Natural Area.
This special place is a very diverse area with
many fun and interesting areas to tour and
learn about. There is a enchanting new trail
along Cedar Lake and lots of old buildings
to see. Please call to register and get directions. 256-9665
Saturday, August 18 2 – 3 pm
Kids’ Hike at DeYoung
Conservancy docent, Bobbie Poor, will lead
a children’s hike on the new Cedar Lake
Trail at 2 pm.
14
Sunday, August 19 2 pm
The Magnificent Teichner Natural Area
Join docents Jack Schultz and Ann Mason
for a hike around one of Leelanau County’s
hidden gems – The Teichner Natural Area on
Lime Lake. From the magnificent chestnut
tree to the shores of this inland lake, you
will be treated to a very enjoyable summer
stroll.
Tuesday, August 21 10 am
Poetry about Nature’s Harvest Season
at Kehl Lake
Let nature’s harvest season inspire you to
share a favorite poem or write one at the
overlook platform along the lovely Kehl Lake
trail. Docent Bobbie Poor, in her own unique
manner, will lead an inspiring hike through
this incredibly beautiful natural area.
Thursday, August 23 10 am
Family Story Hour at the Houdek Dunes
Natural Area
Docent Bobbie Poor would like you to join
her on an adventure to enjoy a family hike
where youngsters of all ages will learn about
nature’s poetry as they listen to tales under
the Story Tree.
Saturday, August 25 7 pm
A View of Lighthouse West at the Tip
of the Peninsula
This area, with its stellar habitat for migrating
birds in particular, is precious and unique.
Located north of Northport near the Grand
Traverse Lighthouse, it has been recently
protected by the Leelanau Conservancy.
This evening hike is a perfect opportunity to
tour this property with docent Jack Schultz.
The hike requires sure-footedness as there
are some rocks and rough terrain to travel
across. Proper shoes a must; walking sticks
also recommended.
September
Saturday, September 8 2 pm
It’s Time to Explore the DeYoung
Natural Area
Join docent Dick Fidler on an exploration
field trip around this historic farmstead and
145-acre natural wonder. You’ll take a leisurely
stroll through the newly-constructed Cedar
Lake Trail and wander past the barns and
other historic structures. Dick will tell tales
of life in the past at this farm and plans for
the future.
Sunday, September 9 2 pm
Have you Explored the New Chippewa
Run Trail?
Docents Jack Schultz and Ann Mason will
lead you around this beautiful new trail
system in Empire, which was created this
summer by volunteers and Stewardship staff.
Join Jack and Ann for an informative and fun
hike through one of the Conservancy’s most
diverse natural areas and home to dozens of
bird species. You will travel past a perennial
stream and pine plantation, through an old
orchard and along a deep ravine.
Saturday, September 15 1 pm
The End of Summer at Chippewa Run
Join Leelanau Conservancy docents David
Harris and Ann Mason for a casual stroll
around the incredibly beautiful natural area in
Empire. There was a lot of focus on improving this natural area this spring and summer.
Today would be the perfect time to discover
our new trail system and see all that this area
has to offer.
The Wild Mushrooms of Kehl Lake
Tuesday, September 18 10 am
Join Leelanau County’s own mushroom expert
Ed Reinert and docent Mary Lyons on an informative hike at the Kehl Lake Natural Area.
The forest floor should be abundant with different species of mushrooms brought on by
Hikes, Events
fall rains. Be prepared to ask questions and
learn everything you want to know about different types of mushrooms. Feel free to bring
mushroom and fungus samples from your own
property to discuss with Ed, especially if we
are experiencing a fall drought.
Thursday, September 20 10 am
Nature’s Paint Box – The Whaleback
Natural Area
Bring your colored pencils, crayons, or pastels and paper or camera to capture nature
in her finest garb. Or come just to hike then
carry away colorful memories of Whaleback’s
magical trail. Docent Bobbie Poor will lead
this rigorous hike up to the top of Whaleback where you will get a complete view of
“Nature’s Paint Box.”
Saturday, September 22 10 am
Nature’s Alarm Clock – The Autumnal
Equinox at Kehl Lake
This time of year signals that it is time to
get ready for colder and shorter days. Join
Ann McInnis and Marsha Buehler at the Kehl
Lake Natural Area as they investigate nature’s
myriad of preparations.
Saturday, September 22 3 - 5 pm
Bird Houses and Hikes at DeYoung
Join us at DeYoung Natural Area hike the
new trail, build a bird house. Kay Charter
of Saving Birds Thru Habitat will be onhand to help build Tree Branch Bluebird
Houses, a style which prevents nest failure
due to predation or heat stress. (The hike
is *FREE*, but if you would like to build
one of Kay’s incredible bird houses to take
home with you, please let us know when
you register. Cost is $30.) Sunday, September 30 3 pm
Plants, Animals and Fall Activities at
Chippewa Run Natural Area
Take a hike with docent Alice Van Zoeren
through this special spot in Empire. You will
stroll along the new trail that was constructed
this summer. Along the way you will view the
many plants and signs of various animals that
indicate their fall activities.
October
Saturday, October 6 2 pm
What Happens in the Fall at DeYoung
Natural Area?
Harvest season is here. Fall colors are everywhere. Birds are beginning to migrate south
for the winter. What’s left at DeYoung? A
whole lot of nature waiting to be explored
and discovered! Join docent Dick Fidler for
an interesting and adventurous hike around
the DeYoung Natural Area. View the old
homestead, the Cedar Lake Trail and wander
into the upland portion of the property.
Saturday, October 13 10 am
Discover Nature’s Marvelous Adaptations at Whaleback
envy of the whole country. Discover some
of the science behind nature’s marvelous
adaptations for winter survival on a discovery walk up Whaleback with docents Ann
McInnis and Marsha Buehler. Bring along
a little sketch book and coloring tools for a
fun way to remember the day.
Saturday, October 20 3 - 5 pm
Gearing Up for Halloween at DeYoung
Join us for afternoon cocoa and story-time
in the DeYoung lower barn, followed by
a twilight prowl of the Cedar Lake trail. (After the hike, we might even get to
watch the bats take flight from the barn!)
Northern Michigan’s fall color season is the
DIRECTIONS TO NATURAL AREAS
TEICHNER PRESERVE
There is a short trail down to the lake but
much of this tangled wetland area is best
viewed on a guided hike. From Leland, head
south on M-22 about 8 miles and turn left
on South (East) Lime Lake Rd, near the
SW corner of the King’s Challenge Golf
Course at Sugarloaf. Once you turn off of
M-22 onto Lime Lake Rd, it is just a short
distance—about a mile—to the Preserve.
Look for a fence on the right and park
there.
CHIPPEWA RUN NATURAL AREA
Explore a 1 1/4 mile trail here on easy
terrain. From the intersection of M-72 and
M-22 in Empire, head north on M-22 about
7/10 of a mile. The parking area is located
on the left, or northwest side of the street
just south of the creek.
DEYOUNG
NATURAL AREA
The 1/4 mile Cedar Lake Trail is located just
across the TART trail. See kiosk. It is flat
and winding.
From Traverse City: From intersection of
M-72 and M-22 in Traverse City (Tom’s
West Bay) go north on M-22 1.2 miles, turn
left onto Cherry Bend Rd. Go 2.0 miles
down Cherry Bend Rd., and look for the
barn on your right. Pull into the parking
area by the barn.
From Leelanau County: From CR 641 and
Cherry Bend Rd. intersection, go towards
Traverse City on Cherry Bend Rd. about 2.1
miles, look for the barn on your left. Pull
into the parking area by the barn.
KEHL LAKE NATURAL AREA
There are 2 loops here - a one-mile loop
that meanders along the lake and through
the forest and a new 3/4 mi trail through
similar easy terrain. Although this hike is
relatively easy, hiking shoes are necessary
Beginning from the junction of M-22 and
M-201 (south of Northport), take M-201
through Northport. At 1.5 miles, M-201
ends and CR 640 begins as you follow the
curve to the right. Follow 640 for 1 mile to
Snyder Road and turn left. Follow Snyder
Road for 1.5 miles to the parking area on
the left. Kehl Lake is shown as Leg Lake on
some maps.
WHALEBACK NATURAL AREA
The Whaleback trail is well-groomed and
easy to follow, however, the trail quickly
gains in elevation which can be rigorous.
Wear shoes suitable to hiking. Beginning
from the junction of M-22 and M-204 (3
mi S. of Leland), take M-22 north approx.
1 mile. A sign on the west (left) side of
M-22 marks the entrance to the parking
area. Continue straight for a few hundred
feet on the gravel road entrance to the
parking area.
HOUDEK DUNES NATURAL AREA
There are two loops here totalling 1.25
miles that traverse gentle, but sandy terrain.
Steep steps lead you from the parking area
to the trailhead. Beginning in Leland, drive
north along M-22 approximately 5 miles to
County Road 626. Proceed another ¾ mile
north along M-22. A sign on the west (left)
side of the road marks the entrance to the
parking area.
15
Happenings
Thanks for your help!
T
rail building, hike leading, envelope stuffing, poster distribution, letter signing and
auction soliciting…and so much more—our volunteers are key to our success (and
to lightening our staff load!). If we have neglected to name you, please know that we
are no less grateful for all you do to help us. The following volunteers lent a hand since
our last list was published. As always, thanks to our wonderful “working” board (see
back page) who help us in countless ways day in and day out. We are always in need of
volunteers - if you would like to help, please call or email cfaught@theconservancy.com.
It’s a great way to meet new people, have fun and feel great about helping to conserve
the land, water and scenic character of Leelanau County!
Val Ance
George Anderson
Tom Angus
Judy Balas
Lois Bahle
Gary Bardenhagen
Paul Bauer
Nora Bumb
Marsha Buehler
Bill and Mary Kell Cayley
Marie Christianson
Janet Clarkson
Sue Corbin
Annette Deibel
Treva DeJong
Patricia Denton
Roland Drayson
Bob Elliott
Gina Erb
Gail Evans
Judy Evans
Dave Faught
Dennis and Erika Ferguson
Dick Fidler
Judy Frederick
Diane and Jim Gilbo
Mary Haberland
David Harris
Jim, David & Tim Henglebrok
Bart and Gail Ingraham
Marnie Kohler
Franc & Mary Ann Krebs
Ann Mason
Ann McInnis
Bob and Janet McKelvey
Courtney Miller
Nancy Miller
Lisa Myer
Maxi Neugebauer
Ann & Herb Nichols
Sharon Oriel
Carol Peterson
Christina Pfeufer
Bobbie Poor
Ken Richmond
Kathy Rowe
Kathy Rymal
Pat & Larry Schleh
Cathy Schocker
Leslie Schmid
Pam Schmidt
Jack Schultz
Leif Sporck
Laura Swire
Carey Thompson
Mary Tonneberger
Alice Van Zoeren
Betty Waite
Ann Watkins
Leese Wittus
Chuck Whetsel
Dave & Carolyn Wollenhaupt
Steve Young
Special thanks to KAL Excavating
for their fantastic work and partnership on the DeYoung Natural
Area parking lot and with the
removal of autumn olive and cherry
trees in the reforestation area!
Staff News: Meet Nancy Thomas
October 1975 was a spectacular autumn in Leelanau
County. With just the right
combination of temperatures,
rain, and sun, the colors were
the most vivid I had ever seen.
Coupled with the sun dancing
on the blue water as we travNancy Thomas, our new
eled the last leg of our trip
Accounting and Administrative
down M-22 into Northport,
Assistant
it was love at first sight for
me! My husband, Jim, had vacationed here many summers
16
as a child, staying at Beach Home, the name given to the
Thomas summer home along Smith Avenue in Northport.
Moving here has been a dream of mine ever since that day.
Jim and I have at last succeeded in making our move and
we have landed on a 40-acre parcel near Kehl Lake. Our
home is taking shape and I have found a job. And, it’s not
just any job, it’s a job at the Leelanau Conservancy!
Having completed my first three months at the Conservancy, I am proud to be baby-stepping my way into an
organization comprised of enormous talent and dedication.
I feel privileged to have this opportunity and I look forward to
making a contribution to your community of preservers.
Honorariums
& Memorials
HONORARIUMS & MEMORIALS
(Received between 3/5/07 and 7/05/07)
In Honor of
In Memory of
Diana Aug
Viktor Incentives & Meetings
The Ruby Ellen Farm
Mrs. Dolores J. Scheidel
Ed & Jeanne Falberg’s 60th
Dr. and Mrs. Raymond Ross
Patrice & Donald Bailey
Anonymous
Bellwether Gardens
Mr. and Mrs. Craig Rosenberg
Mr. and Mrs. William
Zoufal
Mr. and Mrs. John D. Lewis
Marilyn and Tom Steele’s 60th
Mrs. Mary E. Lyons
Janine Bellizi
Karen L. Chase & David Bellizi
Brian & Susan Price’s 30th
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Collins
Ms. Natasha W. Koss
Joy Lang and John Anderson
Wilbur Bockstahler
Mrs. Julie K. Pung
Martha Blenkhorn
Ms. Marcia Manseau
Mark Cantrell and Kathy Rymal
Ms. Rebecca Perczyk
Wedding Wishes!
David Cassard
Mid-West Brokers, Inc
Adam Nemon & Billie Johnson
Barry Nemon & Barbara StarkNemon
Happy Birthday!
Cassidy Clark
Mr. John D. Clark
Paul and Amy Sutherland
Robin and Chris Bahle
Hugh Jones - 90th Mrs. Susanne E. Rose Kraynak
Kevin D.Clark
Ms. Joyce Clark
Amy Swenson & Jeremy Darrow
Mr. Justin Dula
Mary Woolford - 90th Mrs. Jeannette R. Hodgson
Happy Fathers Day!
David Harris - 62nd Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Harris
Brodie William Cole
Mr. and Mrs. James C. Gilbo
DIVA
Ms. Margaret Sweet
Paul Dechow and Joanne Blum
Mark and Betsy Fisher
Coldwell Banker Schmidt
Jack Ferguson
Ms. Sarah Ferguson
John W. Fisher
Joanie Woods
Chip Hoagland - 60th
Peter and Anne Magoun
Ben Fellows - 16th
Kurt and Eleanor Luedtke
Austin Fellows
Kurt and Eleanor Luedtke
Patricia Earhart
Mrs. Ann K. Irish
Happy Mother’s Day!
Dennis Ferguson
Mr. and Mrs. John V. Campbell
Drs. Ann and Conrad Mason
Janice Fisher
Joanie Woods
Mary Lyons
Michael and Debbie Lyons
Mr. and Mrs. Kent N. Holton
Molly Harrison
Dr. and Mrs. Rodney P. Geier
Mary Lyons
Mr. and Mrs. Kent N. Holton
Special Messages
Edward A. Manseau
Ms. Marcia Manseau
Joanie Woods
Stephanie and Mark Duckmann
John Nelson - GT Baykeeper
Mr. and Mrs. Doug Sherman
Happy Anniversary!
Einer Peterson
Mrs. Nancy Peterson
George & Eloise Basta’s 50th
Mr. and Mrs. George W.
Anderson
Arleen Rae
Mr. Curtis A. Cummins
Dick and Lou Ristine
Mr. and Mrs. Berkley W. Duck,
III
The Harris Family
David and Marcia Harris
Jack & Darlene Carpenter’s 50th
Ms. Tammy Carpenter
Mr. Timothy P. Carpenter
Ms. Jane Vivyan
In Honor of Matthew Brant’s
Confirmaion
Mr. and Mrs. Richard R. Brant
John Booth
Craig A. and Nancy T. Miller
Pepper Hamilton LLP
Barbara Brokaw
Mr. and Mrs. Theron M. Brokaw
Mr. and Mrs. Norton Bretz
Ms. Josephine Brokaw
Mrs. Paula S. Leinbach
Munson West Front P.T.
Ms. Gretchen Page
Poland Depler & Shepherd Co
Ms. Susan Ruzzo
Ms. Anneliese Scheef
Mr. and Mrs. Price Watts
Charles Arthur Brown
Elizabeth Bracken Wiese &
Fred Wiese
Erma Ruth Brown
Mrs. Nancy Elifritz
Mr. and Mrs. Gary B. Twomey
Mr. T. Jeff Davis
Ms. Patricia Ditton
Mr. and Mrs. Richard C. Mileham
Margaret Bumb
J. Richard Emens &
Bea Emens Wolper
R. Alan Burt
Herb and Ann Nichols
Congratulations to James C. and
Patricia M. Ganter, NMEAC
Environmentalists of the Year
First Merchants Trust Co.
Nina Burton
Mr. and Mrs. Lee A. Bowen
Mr. and Mrs. Gene D. Lewis
Craig A. and Nancy T. Miller
In Honor of Charlie Driker
Ohren’s Bar Mitzvah
Ms. Donna Kaplowitz
Scott Anderson Casey
Kimberly Clark Foundation
Charles H. Chandler
Mr. and Mrs. William Ammerman
Phyllis Brown
Mrs. Joan Chandler
17
Memorials
MEMORIALS
(Continued from page 18; Received between 3/05/2007 and 7/5/07)
Charles H. Chandler, (con’t)
Mr. Joe Chandler
Rick and Judy Chandler
Steve and Elaine Chandler
FEMA R-VII
Mrs. Margaret Higley
Mr. David Higley
Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Hoerner
Mrs. Judith C. Hoerner
Mr. and Mrs. Karl Marsh
Mrs. Jenny B. Peterson
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher W. Smith
Vi Church
Mr. and Mrs. Ralph A. Olsen
Jerry and Shuy Claeys
Mr. and Mrs. Jerome J.
Claeys, III
John C. Denny
Mrs. Kathryn Denny
Bernie Doyle
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Shuster
Ann Elliott
Mr. Robert C. Elliott
James C. Ganter
Mr. and Mrs. George W.
Anderson
Mr. and Mrs. George A. Ball
Mrs. Lena A. Ball
Mr. and Mrs. Richard M. Beers
Mr. and Mrs. Lee A. Bowen
Mr. and Mrs. Frank A. Bracken
Mr. and Mrs. William G. Crary
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Donley
Stephanie and Mark Duckmann
Mrs. Virginia Eitzen
Ms. Susan J. Finke
Mr. and Mrs. David A. Galliher
Mr. James Jacobsen
Ms. Marcia Manseau
Dr. and Mrs. William J. McCool
Ms. Jennie M. Naffie
Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Owsley
Mr. David T. Owsley
Chris and Ann Stack
Mrs. Sally Viskochil
Joan and Randy Woods
18
James C. Ganter, (con’t)
Elizabeth Bracken Wiese &
Fred Wiese
Susan A. Lilac
Ms. Sandra J. Chumack
Betty Anne Loser
Elvera Gladman
Mr. and Mrs. John Gudritz
Rotary Fund of the G.T. Regional
Bill McCurdy
Comm. Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Peter A. Borden
Betty Graf
Kyle Mills
Mrs. Eleanor B. Stephenson
Michigan Opera Theatre
Ann Hall
Orchestra & Chorus
Mr. Ray C. Collins
Dr. and Mrs. Raymond Ross
Joyce Hendricks
Mr. and Mrs. David N.
Hendricks
Nancy Hintermeister
Mr. and Mrs. George B.
DeHuff, III
Ms. Adeline L. Maack
Mr. Gerald F. Nye
Thomas J. Hollmeyer
Mr. T. Jeff Davis
Phyllis Horner
Mr. and Mrs. Peter A. Borden
William Irwin
Cascade Hills Condominium Association
Mr. and Mrs. E. Eugene Fisher
Ms. Marge Funghi
Mr. Roger G. Funghi, Jr.
Mr. David Goodrick
Hungerford, Aldrin Nichols & Carter, PC
Mr. and Mrs. Richard N. Keener
Mr. and Mrs. Cliff Kohlbeck
Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence R. Olsen
Mr. and Mrs. Michael A.
Plessner
Mr. and Mrs. Scott L. Ray
Mr. and Mrs. Andy Sbrocco
Ms. Greta Sbrocco
Mrs. Jessie M. Seven
Mr. and Mrs. Carl C. Slater, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Jim Stuart
Mr. Mark Stuart
Mr. Henry A. Wind
Sydney Keeble
Mrs. Sarah F. Roloson
Bob Moore
Wayne and Sharon Workman
Douglas K. Nelson
Ms. Susan E. Casey
Craig A. and Nancy T. Miller
Mr. Tom Nelson
Robert G. Poole
Mr. and Mrs. George F.
McKisson
Grandma and Grandpa Price
Mr. and Mrs. Brad Raple
Joel A. Pugh
Mark Cantrell & Kathy Rymal
Mr. and Mrs. Ben I. Taylor
Charles Randall
Mr. and Mrs. Delbert C. Dyche
Mrs. Margaret Higley
Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Hoerner
Alan Read
Mr. and Mrs. Roger Edgley
Mr. and Mrs. David W. Hildner
Omena Women’s Club
Dennis and Kathy Turner
Roy Reynolds
Mr. and Mrs. William C.
Albrecht
The Ann Arbor News
Mr. and Mrs. Clark Charnetski
Mr. Arthur P. Gallagher
Mr. John D. Hilton
Dr. and Mrs. David W. Hunter
Ms. Nancy S. Lambert
Ms. Joanne Leonard
Ms. Judith McGovern
Mr. and Mrs. Robert R. Shaefer
Roy Reynolds, (con’t)
Mr. and Mrs. Raymond J. Sleep
Ms. Nancy P. Snow
Mr. Roger D. Stutesman
Mr. and Mrs. Roger L. Trim
Washtenaw County Historical Society
Mr. Robert A. Wischmeyer
Joe Ritchey
Mr. and Mrs. William J. LeGray
Julie Rothaug
Mr. and Mrs. George W.
Anderson
Mr. and Mrs. Albert G. Armour
Mr. and Mrs. Fred M. Atkinson
Mr. and Mrs. Conrad D. Bult
Mr. and Mrs. Charles J. Bumb
Ms. Patricia J. Cole
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph T. Connell
Ms. Colleen R. Cooper
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas S. Cordes
Mr. and Mrs. Robert S.
Damerjian
Mr. and Mrs. Jud Dannenberg
Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert A. Deibel
Mr. and Mrs. Charles W.
Dickerson
Ms. Carol A. Donahue
Mr. and Mrs. D. Preston Dozier
Tom and Gretchen Dunfee
John and Gina Erb
Ms. Sally M. Etz
Mrs. Jill Foerster
Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence W. Frank
Mr. and Mrs. George R.
Fredrickson
Mr. and Mrs. Donald R. Frerichs
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen E.
Gilbreath
Ms. Mary E. Greenway
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Gremel
Mr. and Mrs. John W. Groomes
Hawkins Elementary School
Joan Kalchik & Michael
Tenbrock
Mr. and Mrs. James P. Landes
Mr. and Mrs. Richard L. Lang
Mr. and Mrs. Karl Marsh
Mr. and Mrs. George E. Maule
Mr. and Mrs. P. Michael May
Memorials and Tributes
Julie Rothaug, (con’t)
Mr. and Mrs. Doug McInnis
Mr. and Mrs. Alan Middleton
Mrs. Dorothy Middleton
Ms. Rene C. Milliken
Mr. and Mrs. James A. Murphy
Mrs. Marion A. Murphy
Mr. and Mrs. Carrol R. Nichols
Herb and Ann Nichols
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. O’Connor
Dr. and Mrs. Raymond E. Reinert
Dr. and Mrs. William A. Riley
Mrs. Paula M. Robertson
Mr. and Mrs. Edward F. Schlee
Mr. and Mrs. Edward D. Schocker
Mr. and Mrs. John A. Scott
Mr. and Mrs. Jarold Sobehrad
Mrs. Maureen L. Suelzer
Dr. and Mrs. William G. Thomas
Mr. and Mrs. Robert A.
Wainwright
Mr. and Mrs. James Y. Watson
Mrs. Ethel M. Wills
Mr. and Mrs. Clarence B. Wolfe
Mrs. Dorothy D. Young
Tribute to Jim Ganter
Fondly remembered by many in the Leelanau community,
Jim Ganter, who passed away on May 2, was accurately
described in his obituary as “a champion of the environment and open, fair government, and founder of Sugar
Loaf Mountain Resort.” In addition to support for many
environmental causes in the Traverse City area, he was a
stalwart supporter of the Leelanau Conservancy. Jim and
his wife, Pat, were among the first Conservancy members,
and Pat served on the Conservancy’s board from 1990 to
1999. From hosting neighbors in their home on Cedar
Lake to discussing conservation opportunities in Elmwood
Township, to founding the Cedar Lake Association to address water quality issues, to long-time service on the Elmwood Township Planning commission, Jim never missed an opportunity to support a cleaner environment with access to
natural resources for citizens throughout the area. Most recently, Jim and Pat were vocal
supporters for establishing the DeYoung Natural Area at Cedar Lake.
Jim liked to refer to himself as “just an Indiana farm boy” and he never lost his funloving attitude, or his appreciation for the natural beauty of Leelanau. We’re grateful to the
family for directing Jim’s memorials to our DeYoung Natural Area Fund. - Brian Price
James D. Ryan
Mrs. Judith A. Ryan
Norma Schaub
Mr. William R. Cory
Joan and Randy Woods
David Vaughan
Mr. and Mrs. John J. Kinsella
Mr. Lawrence M. Noble, Jr.
Col. Craig Smith
Jacqie Verdier
Mr. and Mrs. Harold C. McKee
Stephanie and Mark Duckmann
Thomas John Sova
Mr. and Mrs. Gary B. Twomey
Mr. and Mrs. Gary Sova
Larry and Jacqie Verdier
Margaret Hunt Stewart
Dr. and Mrs. David D.
Mrs. Molly Harrison
Verdier, MD
William (Sy) Symons
Ms. Sara E. Smith
Etta L. Voice
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Shuster
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Terhune
Ms. Margo G. Elliott
Frank and Marylynn Watson
Mr. and Mrs. LaVerne L. Baxter
Louise Thomas
Ms. Mimi Mullin
Kathryn Wellborn
Elizabeth Bracken Wiese &
Fred Wiese
Mrs. Torre Tyler
Mr. and Mrs. Victor S.
Johnson, Jr.
Remembering Julie Rothaug
We were moved by the
outpouring of gifts to
honor Julie Rothaug.
Julie was clearly an
extraordinary person,
for whom many held
great affection. We
are both humbled and
grateful that she and
Paul thought so highly
of the Conservancy as
to direct memorials to
our work.
Julie was a friend of our docent Ann McInnis who often
works with children. She told Paul she wanted her memorials
to be directed toward Ann’s work at the Conservancy with
our littlest conservationists. “Kids were Julie’s thing,” says
Paul. “Her degree was in primary education, and after our
own children were grown, she worked with deaf pre-schoolers and children with cerebral palsy.”
19
OFFICERS and DIRECTORS
Edward and Barbara Collins, Founders
Richard O. Ristine, Honorary Chairman
OFFICERS
Frank Siepker, Chairman
Thomas Dunfee, President
Jeff Corbin, Vice-President
John Erb, Vice-President
David Cassard, Treasurer
Mary E. Lyons, Secretary
DIRECTORS
Published 3 times per year, Susan Price and Carolyn Faught, Editors
Richard Brant
John Bull
Jack Burton
Kyle Carr
Tom Dunfee
John Erb
Deborah W. Fellows
Molly Harrison
Barbara NelsonJameson
Larry Mawby
STAFF
Craig Miller
Jack Seaman
Mary Taylor
Sally Viskochil
Harvey Warburton
Warren Watkins
Brian Price, Executive Director
bprice@theconservancy.com
Susan Price, Finance Director
sprice@theconservancy.com
Matt Heiman, Land Protection Specialist
mheiman@theconservancy.com
Tom Nelson,Land Protection Specialist
tnelson@theconservancy.com
Jenee Rowe, Stewardship Director
jrowe@theconservancy.com
Carolyn Faught, Communications Director
cfaught@theconservancy.com
Anne Shoup, Development Director
ashoup@theconservancy.com
Dan Scripps, Program Development Research Associate
dscripps@theconservancy.com
Gayle E. Egeler, Membership and Outreach Coordinator
gayle@theconservancy.com
Arlene Heckl, Office Administrator
aheckl@theconservancy.com
Nancy Thomas, Accounting and Administrative Assistant
nthomas@theconservancy.com
Leelanau Conservancy
105 North First Street
P. O. Box 1007
Leland, MI 49654
231-256-9665
conservancy@leelanau.com
www.theconservancy.com
20
Don’t miss our Annual Friends Picnic
Thursday, August 2
Woolsey Airport
Northport
2-5pm Pre-Picnic Field
Trips. Choose from 9
fun and informative
options for all ages that highlight our work at the tip of
the peninsula. Check out all the trips online at
www.theconservancy.com
5 pm The Main Event Begins!
• Social hour
• Silent Auction bidding: check out more than 100
auction items online
• Music by Cabin Fever
• Leelanau Wine
• Appetizers utilizing local produce created by seven
area chefs/caterers. Taste the local foods difference!
• Kids Tent with activities for children 3-12
6 pm Picnic Dinner featuring local foods
7 pm Short program with Volunteer and Business
Partner of the Year Awards
7:20pm Live Auction, with eight fabulous
items, including Mario’s evening of
hands-on cooking lesson, wine tasting and,
as Mario says, “Sunday Supper in the true
style of Rome!”
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
Leland, MI
Permit No. 5